The WYDE Civic Engagement project complements its activities at global and regional levels with ad-hoc country-level support. The overall aim of the Quick-Impact Actions (QIAS) is to provide urgent and strategic support to local actors working on youth political inclusion and participation, always upon request of the relevant EU Delegation.
Based on the specific objectives determined in close cooperation with EUDs, the most appropriate local actor(s) are identified and selected to implement the QIAs. This is done either through a direct technical intervention or an action grant, awarded directly or through a restrictive call for proposals, depending on the urgency of the need, the political calendar, and the potential to generate positive changes in youth participation.)
Project Overview
The Development for Peace Education (DPE) project aims to increase youth participation in Lesotho’s democratic processes by addressing key barriers to voter registration, particularly among underserved populations. Despite continuous voter registration, many young people remain unregistered due to lack of access to National ID cards, geographic isolation, and voter apathy fueled by misconceptions about the electoral process. This project integrates civic education with direct voter registration initiatives to overcome both logistical and informational challenges.
Key Objectives:
- Civic Education: Educate at least 10,000 young people aged 18–35 across five districts (Mafeteng, Mohale’s Hoek, Quthing, Qacha’s Nek, and Thaba Tseka) by March 2025 to raise awareness of the importance of voting.
- Registration Awareness: Partner with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for 25 community outreach events, ensuring 70% of participants understand the voter registration process.
Facilitating Documentation: Collaborate with grassroots organisations to help 3,000 youth (60% women) from rural areas obtain necessary identification documents for registration by March 2025.
Proposal to merge objectives and approach:
- Civic Education: Educate at least 10,000 young people aged 18–35 across five districts (Mafeteng, Mohale’s Hoek, Quthing, Qacha’s Nek, and Thaba Tseka) to raise awareness of the importance of voting.
- Registration Awareness: Involve the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and community leaders to organize for 25 community outreach events, ensuring 70% of participants understand the voter registration process, dispelling myths about election rigging and highlighting the role of inclusive electoral structures
Facilitating Documentation: Collaborate with grassroots organisations to help 3,000 youth (60% women) from rural areas obtain necessary identification documents for registration, ensuring logistics support and community mobilisation.
Target Groups:
Youth in Rural Areas: Isolated due to geographic and transportation barriers, they will be reached via central gathering points and community leader coordination.
High School and Tertiary Students: Civic education will be delivered in schools and colleges to foster a culture of engagement.
Urban Youth: Outreach in youth centres and popular venues will combine sports and entertainment with voter registration messaging.
Child-Headed Households: These youth will receive targeted support to ensure they are informed and equipped to register.
Youth with Disabilities: Accessible venues and tailored materials will ensure inclusive participation.
About Development for Peace Education (DPE)
Development for Peace Education (DPE) is a civil society organisation rooted in Christian values, dedicated to empowering grassroots communities in Lesotho through dialogue, peace education, and collective action, enabling them to define and drive their own development and governance.
